Actual Debate: Should Angela Merkel Slip Into Something More Comfortable To Indicate She's Open To Euro Bonds?

Ms. Merkel has taken Bettina Schoenbach's advice to heart, exclusively wearing straight-cut pants and three-button, diagonal-pocketed blazers from the German designer...While that sartorial consistency may have been an asset earlier in her career, it could become a problem as Ms. Merkel pushes the unpopular message of austerity to European Union members and faces a restless electorate at home, says Robb Young, author of "Power Dressing: First Ladies, Women Politicians & Fashion." "Her static wardrobe can be perceived as an honest reflection of her political persona—a no-nonsense, rational woman," says Mr. Young. "But the same unwavering resolve to maintain this habitual, signature style could be a liability among certain voters aching for signs of change." [WSJ via Heidi Moore]